Side sleepers often struggle with shoulder pressure and inadequate hip support, leading to restless nights and morning aches. With Onebed’s reputation for adjustable comfort and pressure relief, we’ve researched the top mattresses designed specifically for side sleeping positions. This guide features carefully selected picks that excel in pressure relief and body contouring.
*Always consult a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing chronic pain or discomfort related to sleep or posture.
Quick Picks Summary
1. Onebed X 12″ – Best for Side Sleepers Seeking Balanced Comfort
2. Koala Mattress – Best for Side Sleepers with Sensitivities
3. Eva Comfort Classic Mattress – Best Value Hybrid for Side Sleepers
4. Emma Comfort Adapt Mattress – Best for Pressure Relief
5. Ecosa Pure Mattress – Best for Eco-Conscious Side Sleepers
6. Onebed Original – Best for Customisable Comfort for Side Sleepers
1. Onebed X 12″ – Best for Side Sleepers Seeking Balanced Comfort
Specs:
- Mattress Type: Hybrid
- Firmness Level: Medium-firm (5.5/10)
- Zoned Support: Yes
- Trial Period: 125 nights
- Warranty: 15 years
- Price: from AUD $650
- Rating: 4.7/5 from ProductReview
Pros:
- Excellent pressure relief for shoulders and hips
- Hybrid design provides responsive support
- Superior motion isolation for couples
- Breathable construction prevents overheating
- Long trial period and warranty
Cons:
- Higher price point than all-foam options
- May be too firm for very lightweight sleepers
The Onebed X 12” excels at contouring to your body’s curves while maintaining proper spinal alignment. Its memory foam layers cradle pressure points, whilst the pocket springs provide responsive support that prevents that “stuck” feeling. The breathable design keeps you cool throughout the night, and the excellent motion isolation means your partner’s movements won’t disturb your sleep.
2. Koala Mattress – Best for Side Sleepers with Sensitivities
Specs:
- Mattress Type: All-foam
- Firmness Level: Medium-firm
- Zoned Support: No
- Trial Period: 120 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price: from AUD $890
- Rating: 4.8/5 on the website
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant
- Excellent breathability prevents heat buildup
- Good pressure relief for side sleeping
- Eco-friendly materials
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- May lack support for heavier individuals
- Limited firmness options
Koala’s unique Kloudcell foam provides a gentle yet supportive feel that’s particularly good for side sleepers with allergies or sensitivities. The open-cell structure promotes airflow, keeping you comfortable all night. Whilst it may not offer the customisation of Onebed, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward, comfortable mattress.
3. Eva Comfort Classic Mattress – Best Value Hybrid for Side Sleepers
Specs:
- Mattress Type: Hybrid
- Firmness Level: Medium-firm
- Zoned Support: No
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price: AUD $900
- Rating: 4.5/5 from ProductReview
Pros:
- Excellent value for hybrid construction
- Gel-infused foam for temperature regulation
- Good motion isolation
- Balanced support and comfort
- Accessible pricing
Cons:
- Less customisation than premium options
- May not suit very specific comfort preferences
The Eva Comfort Classic punches above its weight, offering hybrid benefits at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. The gel-infused foam helps regulate temperature whilst providing adequate pressure relief for side sleepers. It’s a great middle-ground option for those who want hybrid comfort without the premium price tag.
4. Emma Comfort Mattress – Best for Pressure Relief
Specs:
- Mattress Type: Multi-layer foam
- Firmness Level: Medium
- Zoned Support: Yes (7-zone)
- Trial Period: 150 nights
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price: AUD $1,140
- Rating: 4.6/5 from ProductReview
Pros:
- Advanced 7-zone support system
- Excellent pressure relief for hips and shoulders
- Superior motion isolation
- Aerofoam technology for cooling
- Targeted support zones
Cons:
- Higher price for foam construction
- May be too soft for stomach sleepers
Emma’s zoned approach to support makes it particularly effective for side sleepers who experience pressure point discomfort. The different zones provide varying levels of support, with softer areas for shoulders and hips, and firmer support for your core. The Aerofoam technology ensures you won’t overheat, making it a solid choice for hot sleepers.
5. Ecosa Pure Mattress – Best for Eco-Conscious Side Sleepers
Specs:
- Mattress Type: Hybrid with micro-coils
- Firmness Level: Medium
- Zoned Support: No
- Trial Period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 15 years
- Price: AUD $1,085
- Rating: 4.7/5 on the website
Pros:
- Eco-friendly materials and manufacturing
- Excellent temperature regulation
- Micro-coils provide responsive support
- Good balance of comfort and support
- Long warranty period
Cons:
- Limited firmness customisation
- May be too soft for heavier individuals
Ecosa’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t compromise on comfort. The micro-coil system provides responsive support that adapts to your body’s contours, whilst the breathable design keeps you cool. It’s an excellent choice for environmentally conscious side sleepers who want effective pressure relief without compromising their values.
6. Onebed Original – Best for Customisable Comfort for Side Sleepers
Specs:
- Mattress Type: Multi-layer foam (latex, memory foam, high-density)
- Firmness Level: Adjustable (medium to firm)
- Zoned Support: No
- Trial Period: 125 nights
- Warranty: 15 years
- Price: AUD $499
- Rating: 4.7/5 from ProductReview
Pros:
- Unique adjustable firmness system
- Latex top layer for natural breathability
- Excellent value for customisation
- Long trial and warranty periods
- Can adapt to changing preferences
Cons:
- Moderate motion isolation compared to hybrids
- Requires some effort to adjust layers
What sets the Onebed Original apart is its revolutionary approach to comfort customisation. Side sleepers can start with a medium feel and adjust to firmer or softer as needed by rearranging the internal layers. The latex top layer provides natural cooling and responsiveness, whilst the memory foam layer offers pressure relief. It’s perfect for side sleepers who aren’t sure about their ideal firmness level or whose preferences might change over time.
Comparison Table
| Mattress | Type | Firmness | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onebed X 12″ | Hybrid | Medium-firm | $650 | Balanced comfort |
| Koala | All-foam | Medium-firm | $890 | Sensitivities |
| Eva Classic | Hybrid | Medium-firm | $900 | Value seekers |
| Emma Adapt | Multi-foam | Medium | $1,140 | Pressure relief |
| Ecosa Pure | Hybrid | Medium | $1,085 | Eco-conscious |
| Onebed Original | Multi-foam | Adjustable | $499 | Customisation |
Buying Guide for Side Sleepers
When shopping for the best mattress for side sleepers, focus on these key factors:
- Pressure Relief: Your shoulders and hips need to sink in slightly to maintain proper spinal alignment. Look for mattresses with memory foam or latex layers that contour to your body’s curves.
- Medium Firmness: Most side sleepers benefit from a medium to medium-firm feel (4-6 on a 10-point scale). Too soft and you’ll sink too deep; too firm and pressure points won’t get adequate relief.
- Zoned Support: Some mattresses offer different firmness levels across the surface. Softer zones for shoulders and hips, firmer support for your midsection.
- Temperature Regulation: Side sleepers often have more body contact with the mattress, which can lead to heat buildup. Look for breathable materials like latex or gel-infused foams.
- Motion Isolation: If you share your bed, good motion isolation prevents your partner’s movements from disturbing your sleep.
Selection Criteria
Our recommendations are based on rigorous evaluation criteria:
- Pricing: We’ve included options from $799 to $1,599, ensuring there’s a good mattress for side sleepers at every budget level.
- Ratings: All featured mattresses maintain ratings between 4.2-4.7 stars from verified customer reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction among Australian users.
- Brand Reputation: We only included established brands with strong reputations in the Australian market and proven track records for customer service and product quality.
- Side Sleeper Specific Features: Each mattress was evaluated based on construction elements that specifically benefit side sleeping – pressure mapping capabilities, responsive foam layers, contouring support zones, and materials that promote proper spinal alignment.
- Trial Periods and Warranties: All recommendations include substantial trial periods (60-125 nights) and warranties (10-15 years), giving you confidence in your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mattress firmness is best for side sleepers?
Most side sleepers do best with medium to medium-firm mattresses (4-6 on a 10-point scale). This provides enough give for pressure point relief whilst maintaining proper spinal support.
Is it better to sleep on a soft or firm mattress if you sleep on your side?
Neither extremely soft nor firm is ideal for side sleepers. A medium feel offers the best balance – soft enough to relieve pressure on shoulders and hips, but firm enough to prevent your spine from falling out of alignment.
What type of mattress relieves pressure on shoulders?
Memory foam and latex are excellent for shoulder pressure relief as they contour to your body’s shape. Hybrid mattresses with these comfort layers, like the Onebed X 12”, combine pressure relief with responsive support.
Can I use a mattress topper for more side-sleeping comfort?
Yes, a quality mattress topper can add pressure relief to a too-firm mattress. However, it’s better to choose a mattress designed for side sleepers from the start. Toppers can shift or compress unevenly over time, and they won’t provide the same integrated support as a properly constructed mattress.
How do I know if my current mattress is wrong for side sleeping?
Common signs include waking up with shoulder or hip pain, feeling like you’re sleeping “in” rather than “on” the mattress, or experiencing numbness in your arms. If you’re tossing and turning frequently, your mattress might not be providing adequate pressure relief.
Conclusion
Finding the best mattress for side sleepers comes down to balancing pressure relief with proper spinal alignment. Whether you’re dealing with shoulder discomfort, hip pressure, or simply want better sleep quality, the right mattress can make all the difference.
Remember, the best side sleeper mattress is one that supports your individual needs. With Onebed’s industry-leading 125-night trial and 15-year warranty, you can rest easy knowing you’re making a risk-free investment in better sleep.
Ready to transform your side sleeping experience? Shop Onebed’s mattress collections today and discover why thousands of Australians trust Onebed for their best night’s sleep.
